Dáil Day One: Second election on the way as Fianna Fáil/ Fine Gael coalition lies is ruins

Hopes of a grand coalition between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil lay in ruins last night, meaning a second general election this year is now almost certain.

Despite heavy overtures from outgoing Taoiseach Enda Kenny yesterday, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin categorically ruled out any deal, saying his party “has no mandate to return Fine Gael to power”.

Mr Martin appeared to rule out even supporting a minority government arrangement involving Fine Gael, with several of his leading TDs saying they would prefer a second election over doing a deal.